-io - Circuit Des Yeux (2021)

Without knowing it, I picked a radical change-of-pace record for Haley Fohr (the person who records as Circuit Des Yeux) that apparently sounds nothing like her previous output. I have no basis for an opinion as to whether it’s an improvemnet, but it’s a pretty interesting spin.

Fohr’s voice is really remarkable, with an amazing range of both pitch and expression. Previously she seems to have used this to make gothy, gloomy acoustic folk that would work really well in a horror movie. This one, however, is much more expansive. Backing vocals, organ, gigantic drums, and layer upon layer of strings paint in very broad strokes, while the main vocal attack still sounds haunting and urgent.

Overall it’s an enthralling listen that doesn’t sound like much else you’ll hear, apparently including her other releases.

Tracks I Liked

Vanishing - a string quartet riff? I guess, but it works well.

Sculpting The Exodus - a great crescendo

Argument - a really great modern-classical-sounding piece with great dynamics.

Stranger - the top end of her vocal range is just incredible